FINDING YOUR MISSING PEACE
Peace on Earth – Christmas Series
“Happy are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” Matthew 5:9
1. Misconceptions about Peacemaking
• It’s not AVOIDING.
• It’s not APPEASEMENT.
2. Why be a Peacemaker? Because unresolve conflict:
• Blocks my FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD.
“How can a man say `I love God’ and hate his brother at the same time?” 1 John 4:20-21, 1:3-4.
• Prevents ANSWERED PRAYERS.
“Husbands, if you don’t treat your wife right forget about praying.” 1 Peter 3:7
• Hinders my HAPPINESS.
“You are only hurting yourself with your anger…” Job18:4 (GNT)
3. How to become a Peacemaker – P.E.A.C.E
PLAN A PEACE CONFERENCE
“… If you remember your brother has something against you … [you] go at once and make peace…” Matthew 5:23-24 (GNT)
EMPATHIZE WITH THEIR FEELINGS
“None of you should think only of his own affairs, but [consider]… other peoples interest also.” Philippians 2:4 (PHILLIPS)
ATTACK THE PROBLEM NOT THE PERSON
“A gentle answer quiets anger, but a harsh one stirs it up.” Proverbs 15:1 (GNT)
COOPERATE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
“Do everything possible on your part, to live at peace with all men.” Romans 12:18
“By this shall all men know that you’re My disciples, that you have love for one another.” John 13:35
“Peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness.” James 3:18
EMPHASIZE RECONCILIATION NOT RESOLUTION
“God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18
“Happy are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” Matthew 5:9
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…” John 14:27 (NIV)
“… And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give…” John 14:27 (NLT)
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” Colossians 3:15
“Do everything possible on your part to live at peace with all men.” Romans 12:18